(From Nikon lens literature) The "go-to" lens of demanding professionals and serious enthusiasts, the 70-200mm ƒ/2.8 is one of the most useful and sought after high-performance lenses for sports, wildlife, portrait, travel and news photographers. Nikon has further refined the lens, with an enhanced optical formula featuring seven extra low dispersion (ED) glass elements. These elements provide the ultimate in rendering characteristics to capture vibrant, high resolution images with optimal contrast. Image quality is further enhanced by Nikon's Nano Crystal Coat, which reduces instances of lens flare and ghosting, elevating optical performance, even in tricky conditions such as those found in professional sports settings and stage events.
Designed to deliver the pinnacle of image quality in a wide variety of conditions, the new 70-200mm VR II lens also includes a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast, quiet autofocusing. The SWM takes full advantage of 3D tracking autofocus (AF) systems, such as those found on the FX-format D3X, D3 and D700 D-SLR cameras. Three focus modes are available - M, A/M and M/A - for automatically focusing, manually focusing or fine tuning AF performance to best suit the photographers needs. Nine rounded diaphragm blades contribute to a more attractive bokeh, allowing photographers create soft and more naturally separated backgrounds that better highlight the subject.
The 70-200mm ƒ/2.8, now benefiting from Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat, retains its status as a preeminent choice for discerning professionals in a multitude of shooting disciplines. [The lens uses] Nikon's VR II image stabilization technology, which is engineered specifically for, and optimized to, function most effectively for each lens design to substantially reduce camera shake-related image blur. VR II allows photographers to shoot handheld at as many as 3.5* shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible, better assuring dramatically sharper images - even in challenging lighting conditions. Two VR modes are available: "Normal" mode, ideal for everyday use and panning a subject; and "Active" mode, for use in instances where more constant vibration (i.e. camera shake) is present, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.
"Nikon's strong commitment to leadership in lenses drives us to constantly refine NIKKOR lenses to take advantage of newly developed technologies and introduce design innovations," said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. "Fifty years after the introduction of the Nikon F-bayonet lens mount, NIKKOR lenses remain an industry standard. We achieve this by investing in research and being attuned to the needs of both FX and DX-format photographers to provide the best lenses possible."
The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm ƒ/2.8G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning November 2009 at an estimated selling price of $2399.95.
* Based on the CIPA Standard. This value is achieved when: FX-format compatible lenses are attached to an FX-format digital SLR camera and zoom lenses are set at the maximum telephoto position.
